WESTCOUNTRY art will be the focus at auctioneers Greenslade Taylor Hunt’s next antiques sale on Thursday, August 2.

Among the paintings on offer will be 22 from popular artist Harry Frier (1849-1921) who was famed for his Westcountry scenes. His work is extremely popular in the saleroom and much pre-sale interest is anticipated.

Many of the pictures have come from a private collection including a rather amusing image entitled “Biting Criticism.”

The artist had set up his easel on the Quantocks ready to paint a landscape when he was mobbed by over enthusiastic Exmoor ponies.

The hapless Frier had to beat a hasty retreat abandoning his easel and brushes in the process, which were duly destroyed by the inquisitive ponies.

Frier sent a bill to the landowner for his losses and by way of receipt sketched a drawing of the ponies wreaking mayhem.

A more conventional Frier offering is a watercolour signed and dated 1903 depicting the Cross Keys Inn from the East at Norton Fitzwarren, near Taunton. It is guided at £200-£250.

Other images include views of Clovelly, Chagford, Minehead, Bathpool and St Margaret’s Almshouses in Taunton.

A work by acclaimed Westcountry artist Robert Lenkiewicz is also included in the sale. The oil on canvas is guided at £1,200-£1,500.

The sale is on view on Saturday, July 28, at The Octagon Salerooms, East Reach, Taunton, from 9am-12.30pm.

There are further opportunities to view on Tuesday, July 31, and Wednesday, August 1, from 9am-5pm as well as prior to the sale from 8.30am on Thursday, August 2. The sale commences at 10am.

As well as a significant section of Westcountry art the auction will also feature jewellery, silverware ceramics and furniture.

Somerset County Gazette: SOUGHT-AFTER: Lalique “Poissons” opalescent glass charger

Among the items is a beautiful Rene Lalique “Poissons” opalescent glass charger (above). Until recently it had been used as a fruit bowl as the vendor was unaware of its true merit.

It is moulded with fish and bubbles and acid etcthed, 'R Lalique France.’ It is guided at £150-£200.

Somerset County Gazette: DELIGHTFUL: Georgian style silver spirit kettle on stand

A fine Georgian style silver spirit kettle (above) is a notable addition to the silver section. The pretty piece with embossed decoration has a pre-sale estimate of £450-£550.

In addition to the regular monthly sale the auctioneers are also holding a timed auction devoted exclusively to automobilia.

This is entirely on line and runs until 10pm on August 6. For more information please contact the saleroom on 01823 332525.